Merin Thomas
*UMBC Faculty-led: International Labor Economics Focusing on Gender and the Economy
Major: Political Science
Minor: Law and Justice
Track: Pre-Law
Jump To: Predeparture Post, In-Country Post 1
Predeparture Post
Olá everyone!
I’m Merin, a rising senior majoring in Political Science with a minor in Law and Justice on the Pre-Law Track. This summer, I have the absolute privilege of being a Study Abroad Ambassador for the Gender and Economy Faculty-Led Program in Portugal. This is my very first time studying abroad, and I am so excited to take you all along with me as I explore Faro and Lisbon.
Economics is a field that has intrigued me since my childhood. This course explores the significant gender inequalities present today and analyzes the substantial impact of economics in influencing them. While in Portugal, I will concentrate on practical applications of these concepts, such as participating in a walking tour of the Mouraria neighborhood led by migrant guides from the Association Renovar a Mouraria, engaging with the Social Innovation Division at Odemira Town Hall to address local labor market issues, and examining the role of art in promoting social inclusion at Casa Novo Bowing. I will be studying environmental policy and sustainable aquaculture on Culatra Island, visiting research institutions such as CINTRUS at the University of Algarve, and examining asylum rights at the Conselho Português para os Refugiados in Lisbon. Being a Sondheim Public Affairs Scholar, my academic journey has consistently been anchored in a dedication to public service, community involvement, and tackling intricate social issues. This program reflects those fundamental principles. Observing how local NGOs, municipal authorities, and businesses incorporate migrant workers and promote the Sustainable Development Goals closely aligns with my commitment to social justice. It enables me to assess policy and community equity from a worldwide perspective, significantly shaping my future journey in public service and law.
Growing up, a lot of my travel always revolved around going back home to Kerala, India, to visit my family. My parents immigrated to America when I was just six months old, and forthe majority of my life, I connected travel more or less as a duty to visit my home and family I had not seen in years. Traveling has always been something I admired in my life. To explore new cultures and experiences always felt like nothing less than a privilege my parents were able to give me. I was always fascinated with travel, whether it be the experiences I saw or felt through the screen. I grew up completely captivated by Indian Cinema, and a lot of movies, surrounded by travel and growth, became some of my comfort movies as I got older. Looking at a character and seeing how they used their experiences to grow and prosper has always fascinated me.
Now, I am so excited to step into my own journey, see how these experiences shape my own growth, and share my journey with you all. The countdown begins, and I leave in less than a week now, and am focused on making sure I pack the right things and talk to friends who have spent time abroad. This past month, I have spent the majority of my time with my friends and family, whether it be at Trivia in the city, exploring festivals, or some quality time watching some bad reality TV. I am having a calm start to the summer, but I am excited for this journey, and I will see you all very soon.
Com amor (With love),
Merin
In-Country Post #1
Olá friends! I’ve been in Portugal for a couple of days now, and the culture is addicting! We arrived and went on a walking tour that focused on the impact immigrants have had on Lisbon and the stories behind their journeys. Our guide was a woman who has lived in Portugal for the past eight years, and hearing about her personal experiences made everything feel much more meaningful. It was really fulfilling to hear her story and understand how immigration affects more than just an individual it also shapes communities, cultures, and the economy in so many different ways. It made me think about the challenges people face when moving to a new country and how their contributions often become an important part of the places they call home.
These past couple of days have been filled with walking tours, exploring different cities, trying new foods, and taking in the incredible scenery. Every city has its own personality, from the colorful streets and historic buildings to the small cafés and local shops tucked away around every corner. I’ve loved simply wandering through the streets and seeing how different everyday life is here compared to home. It’s amazing how much history and culture you can experience just by walking around and talking to people.
My favorite experience so far has definitely been visiting Culatra Island, where I had raw oysters for the first time! I was a little nervous to try them, but I’m so glad I stepped out of my comfort zone because it ended up being a memorable experience. The island itself was absolutely beautiful, with crystal-clear water, fresh seafood, and such a peaceful atmosphere. It felt like the perfect place to slow down and appreciate everything around me.
This trip has also reminded me of how important it is to be open to new experiences. Whether it’s trying unfamiliar food, learning about another country’s history, or simply getting lost while exploring, every moment has taught me something new.
I will speak to you all soon.
Com amor,
Merin
In-Country Post #2
Olá friends! I’ve been in Portugal for a couple of days now, and the culture is addicting! We arrived and went on a walking tour that focused on the impact immigrants have had on Lisbon and the stories behind their journeys. Our guide was a woman who had lived in Portugal for the past eight years, and hearing about her personal experiences made everything feel much more meaningful. It was really fulfilling to hear her story and understand how immigration affects more than just an individual; it also shapes communities, cultures, and the economy in so many different ways. It made me think about the challenges people face when moving to a new country and how their contributions often become an important part of the places they call home. These past couple of days have been filled with walking tours, exploring different cities, trying new foods, and taking in the incredible scenery. Every city has its own personality, from the colorful streets and historic buildings to the small cafés and local shops tucked away around every corner. I’ve loved simply wandering through the streets and seeing how different everyday life is here compared to home. It’s amazing how much history and culture you can experience just by walking around and talking to people.
My favorite experience so far has definitely been visiting Culatra Island, where I had raw oysters for the first time! I was a little nervous to try them, but I’m so glad I stepped out of my comfort zone because it ended up being a memorable experience. The island itself was absolutely beautiful, with crystal-clear water, fresh seafood, and such a peaceful atmosphere. It felt like the perfect place to slow down and appreciate everything around me.
This trip has also reminded me of how important it is to be open to new experiences. Whether it’s trying unfamiliar food, learning about another country’s history, or simply getting lost while exploring, every moment has taught me something new. I will speak to you all soon. Com amor, Merin
In-Country Post #3
Olá friends! The last week of studying abroad was filled with different experiences at the University of Algarve and everything the institution has to offer. During our tours of the university’s different centers, I learned about their commitment to becoming more self-sufficient and environmentally friendly. One of the most interesting parts was seeing the work they do with marine life and sustainability. It was inspiring to learn how the university is using research to protect ocean ecosystems while also reducing its environmental impact. It made me realize how much universities can contribute to solving global challenges beyond just educating students.
After our time in the Algarve, we headed back to Lisbon, where we had more free time to explore the city on our own. I spent most of my evenings wandering through different markets, picking up small souvenirs, and trying foods that I had never tasted before. One of my favorite discoveries was peri peri chicken—it definitely lived up to the hype! Exploring the local restaurants and markets gave me a better understanding of Portuguese culture than I could have gotten from a classroom alone.
I think there is something incredibly special about exploring a new city at your own pace. Without a strict schedule, I found myself noticing the little things: musicians performing in the streets, families gathering at outdoor cafés late into the evening, and the beautiful architecture around every corner. Those moments made me appreciate how travel is not just about seeing famous landmarks but also about experiencing everyday life in another country.
Although Portuguese culture is different from American culture in many ways, I also noticed there are far more similarities than I expected. People value spending time with family and friends, enjoying good food, and taking pride in their communities. Those shared values made Portugal feel welcoming, even though I was thousands of miles away from home.
Returnee Post
Olá Friends! I am finally back in the United States after an unforgettable study abroad experience in Portugal. The first few days back were spent recovering from jet lag, which was definitely harder than I expected. Even though I was excited to be home, adjusting back to my normal routine took some time. Once I got over the time difference, it felt great to reconnect with my family and friends and share stories from my time abroad. Looking back through my photos and talking about all the places I visited made me realize just how much I experienced in such a short amount of time.
Studying abroad is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and I hope everyone has the opportunity to do it someday. Traveling to another country allowed me to step outside of my comfort zone, experience a different culture firsthand, and see the world from a new perspective. It taught me that there is so much to learn by simply being present in another community and embracing a different way of life.
As I reflected on my trip after returning home, I found myself thinking about my family’s journey. My mother was the one who pushed for our family to immigrate to the United States. At just 29 years old, she came to America alone, leaving behind her family and everything she had known to build a better future for us. That decision required an incredible amount of courage, sacrifice, and faith. Thirty-one years later, I was able to travel to another country not because I had to, but because I had the opportunity to learn, explore, and grow.
That realization gave me a new appreciation for the sacrifices my parents made. Their hard work created opportunities that they never had themselves. This experience reminded me that traveling is a privilege. It is more than just visiting new places or trying different foods; it is an opportunity to understand different perspectives, appreciate other cultures, and reflect on your own. I returned from Portugal with unforgettable memories, a greater sense of independence, and a deeper appreciation for my family’s story. I know this experience will stay with me for the rest of my life.